Govt plans crackdown on highly polluting vehicles

NEW DELHI: With last week's smog drawing attention to the effects of growing vehicular pollution, the Delhi government is planning a crackdown on highly polluting vehicles. Those found violating the pollution norms might have to pay Rs 2,000 as fine. On the eve of Diwali, chief minister Sheila Dikshit said a proposal will soon be placed before the cabinet for proposal. It has been decided to effectively implement the ban on burning leaves and garbage.

Recently, the CM had put the onus for the smog cover on the neighbouring states, Punjab, UP and Haryana. She had blamed the burning of rice straw in those states for formation of the haze, maintaining that vehicular pollution was under check. Even so, a special drive was announced. With environment activists and experts emphasizing that Delhi's air was becoming increasingly polluted, leading to smog, Dikshit held a review on Monday. The CM discussed the issue with chairman (EPCA) Bhure Lal, director, Centre for Science and Environment Dr Sunita Narain, chief secretary P K Tripathi, commissioner of transport Rajendra Kumar, environment secretary Sanjeev Kumar and officials from the Met department.

It was proposed during the review that the transport department and Delhi Police be instructed to take action against highly polluting vehicles and a fine of Rs 2,000 be imposed on the spot.

Another suggestion was that commercial vehicles not bound for Delhi be denied permission to enter the city. This was essential in view of the apex court's instructions, EPCA members said. It was recommended that check posts be set up on entry points of the capital.